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Thursday 25 January 2024
Two St. Croix Men Indicted in Castaways Robbery and HomicideRead the Press Release
St. Croix, USVI – U.S. Attorney Delia L. Smith announced today that Enock Cole, age 25, and Jiovoni Smith, age 24, were indicted by a federal grand jury for the robbery and homicide that occurred at the Castaways bar and restaurant on St. Croix on November 14, 2018.
The indictment charges Cole and Smith with Hobbs Act Robbery, Discharge of a Firearm During a Crime of Violence, Use of a Firearm During a Crime of Violence Resulting in Death, Use of a Minor in a Crime of Violence, and First-Degree Murder. Both men are scheduled to make their initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Emile A. Henderson III on February 1, 2024.
If convicted, Cole and Smith face a maximum penalty of death or life imprisonment. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
This case is part of the Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods Initiative. Project Safe Neighborhoods is a nationwide initiative that brings together federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement officials, prosecutors, and community leaders to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in a community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. For more information on the Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods, please see: https://www.justice.gov/psn.
This case is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Homeland Security Investigations, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Virgin Islands Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Rhonda Williams-Henry and Daniel H. Huston.
United States Attorney Smith reminds the public that an indictment is merely a formal charging document and is not evidence of guilt. Every defendant is presumed innocent until and unless found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Two Plead Guilty in Scheme to Steal More than $850,000 in COVID-19 Housing Assistance FundsRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – Two members of a New Bern family pled guilty for their role in a scheme to defraud a program designed to help struggling North Carolina residents stay in their homes during the COVID-19 pandemic. Takeeia Hawkins, age 43, and her daughter, Shanasia Hawkins, age 22, both pled guilty to conspiracy to commit mail fraud and face up to 30 years at sentencing later this year. Takeeia Hawkins’ son, Jmari Hawkins, age 24, and another conspirator, Jonell Ojeda, age 23, have also been indicted in the scheme to fraudulently obtain more than $850,000 in emergency rental assistance from the NC HOPE Program (North Carolina Housing Opportunities and Prevention of Evictions).
“This case is yet another example of the greedy taking from the needy,” said U.S. Attorney Michael Easley. “These funds were meant to help struggling families pay their rent, and these defendants stole it. Our office will keep coming for fraudsters who used pandemic relief as a personal piggybank.”
According to information presented in court, Takeeia and Shanasia Hawkins admitted to submitting fraudulent applications to the NC HOPE Program, in which they falsely claimed to be the landlord of multiple properties in North Carolina. More than 50 applications, requesting nearly $500,000, were submitted with Takeeia or Shanasia Hawkins listed as the landlord. Neither woman owned property nor served as a landlord of any property. Based on the fraudulent representations, the NC HOPE Program mailed checks, totaling nearly $150,000 to the two women.
Jmari Hawkins and Ojeda were indicted by a federal grand jury on charges of conspiracy to commit mail fraud and aggravated identity theft in October 2023. According to the indictment, Jmari Hawkins and Ojeda are alleged to have worked together with other Hawkins family members to falsely claim to be property landlords on applications submitted to the NC HOPE Program. Property records show neither Jmari Hawkins or Ojeda owned property or served as landlord of any property on the applications. In addition, the indictment alleges they conspired with a third-party to obtain stolen identities and fraudulent identity cards to use when submitting applications for rental assistance. Their cases are still pending, and an indictment is merely an accusation. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty. (see case number below)
The NC HOPE Program administered federal COVID-19 relief funds and provided emergency rental assistance to North Carolina renters who faced eviction and homelessness during the pandemic. The Program allowed renters to submit an online application to apply for rental assistance. If approved, the Program paid the tenant’s rent, in checks sent directly to the landlord, for up to 15 months of overdue or future rent payments.
“Treasury OIG is committed to supporting these coordinated efforts to detect and prevent misuse of public funds,” said Acting Inspector General Rich Delmar.
This alleged scheme allowed the members of the Hawkins family and their associates to enrich themselves at the expense of North Carolina renters struggling with housing insecurity during the pandemic.
“Investigating allegations of fraud related to housing assistance programs is a critical part of the mission of the Office of Inspector General,” said Special Agent in Charge Jerome Winkle, with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Inspector General. “We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to aggressively investigate these types of allegations and bring to justice bad actors who prey on communities struggling with the catastrophic impacts of the pandemic.”
“The COVID-19 pandemic was a difficult time for so many families, including those in communities across North Carolina,” said NC State Bureau of Investigation Director Robert Schurmeier. “The purpose of emergency relief funds like the NC HOPE Program offered was to provide a lifeline to those struggling to keep a roof over their heads. It is beyond disappointing to know that individuals exploited the crisis for their own personal gain while some of their most vulnerable neighbors risked losing their homes. Such actions undermine the very support systems created to hold our communities together during a crisis or otherwise.”
Michael Easley, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, made the announcement. The United States Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Inspector General; the United States Department of Treasury, Office of Inspector General; and the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation investigated the case and it is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen Haughton.
Related court documents and information are located on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for United States v. Takeeia Hawkins, Case No 5:23-CR-00380; United States v. Shanasia Hawkins, Case No. 5:23-CR-00379; Unites States v. Jmari Hawkins et al, Case No. 5:23-cr-00300.
Two Owners of Tony Luke’s Philadelphia Cheesesteak Restaurant Sentenced for Tax FraudRead the Press Release
Two New Jersey owners of a popular South Philadelphia cheesesteak restaurant were sentenced today for their decade-long conspiracy to defraud the IRS. The court sentenced Nicholas Lucidonio, 57, and Anthony Lucidonio Sr., 84, to 20 months in prison each.
According to court documents and statements made in court, the Lucidonios owned and operated Tony Luke’s, a cheesesteak and sandwich restaurant located in South Philadelphia. From 2006 to 2016, they hid from the IRS more than $8 million in cash receipts by, among other things, depositing only a portion of the cash they received into Tony Luke’s business bank accounts and providing incomplete information to their accountant, which caused their accountant to file false tax returns that substantially underreported business receipts and income.
The Lucidonios also committed employment tax fraud by paying employees “off the books” in cash. To evade detection, they paid most employees a portion of their wages “on the books.” The Lucidonios then paid the remainder of their wages in cash without withholding federal income tax, Social Security and Medicare taxes or paying those to the IRS. They did not report these cash wages to their accountant, which caused the accountant to prepare and file false quarterly employment tax returns with the IRS.
When a dispute over Tony Luke’s franchising rights arose between the Lucidonios and another individual in 2015, the Lucidonios became concerned that their tax fraud scheme would be revealed, so they directed that the prior year’s tax returns be amended to increase reported sales. The Lucidonios continued to hide their ongoing payroll tax scheme.
As a result of their tax fraud scheme, the defendants caused a loss of $1,321,042 to the United States.
In addition to the terms of imprisonment, U.S. District Judge Gerald A. McHugh ordered both defendants to serve three years of supervised release.
Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania made the announcement.
IRS Criminal Investigation investigated the case.
Acting Section Chief John Kane of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney and Criminal Division Chief Richard Barrett for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania are prosecuting the case.
Two Owners of Tony Luke’s Philadelphia Cheesesteak Restaurant Sentenced for Tax FraudRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA – U.S. Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero announced that two owners of a popular South Philadelphia cheesesteak restaurant were sentenced to prison today for their decade-long conspiracy to defraud the IRS. The court sentenced Nicholas Lucidonio, 57, and Anthony Lucidonio Sr., 84, to 20 months in prison each.
According to court documents and statements made in court, the Lucidonios owned and operated Tony Luke’s, a cheesesteak and sandwich restaurant located in South Philadelphia. From 2006 to 2016, they hid from the IRS more than $8 million in cash receipts by, among other things, depositing only a portion of the cash they received into Tony Luke’s business bank accounts and providing incomplete information to their accountant, which caused their accountant to file false tax returns that substantially underreported business receipts and income.
The Lucidonios also committed employment tax fraud by paying employees “off the books” in cash. To evade detection, they paid most employees a portion of their wages “on the books.” The Lucidonios then paid the remainder of their wages in cash without withholding federal income tax, Social Security and Medicare taxes or paying those to the IRS. They did not report these cash wages to their accountant, which caused the accountant to prepare and file false quarterly employment tax returns with the IRS.
When a dispute over Tony Luke’s franchising rights arose between the Lucidonios and another individual in 2015, the Lucidonios became concerned that their tax fraud scheme would be revealed, so they directed that the prior year’s tax returns be amended to increase reported sales. The Lucidonios continued to hide their ongoing payroll tax scheme.
As a result of their tax fraud scheme, the defendants caused a loss of $1,321,042 to the United States.
“For a decade, these successful restaurateurs boldly cooked the books, cheating the government and honest taxpayers alike,” said U.S. Attorney Romero. “As this investigation and prosecution show, tax fraud is a crime with some pretty high stakes, with violators held fully accountable.”
“Anyone contemplating cheating on their taxes should know that IRS Criminal Investigation Special Agents work tirelessly, year-round, to investigate tax and financial crimes,” said IRS Criminal Investigation Special Agent in Charge Yury Kruty. “Our largest enforcement program is directed at the portion of American taxpayers who willfully and intentionally violate their known legal duty of filing and paying their taxes.”
In addition to the terms of imprisonment, U.S. District Judge Gerald A. McHugh ordered both defendants to serve three years of supervised release.
IRS Criminal Investigation investigated the case.
Acting Section Chief John Kane of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and Criminal Division Chief Richard Barrett of the Eastern District of Pennsylvania are prosecuting the case.
Two Men Sentenced for Falsifying Documents Related to Testing of Equipment at Nuclear Power PlantsRead the Press Release
Two men attended sentencing hearings today in federal court for their roles in creating false calibration certificates in a matter within the jurisdiction of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC).
Miguel Marcial Amaro and Martin Ramos had each previously pleaded guilty to the felony offense of making and using a false document, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1001. Each defendant is banned from participation or employment in NRC-licensed activities as a condition of their plea agreement – Marcial Amaro for five years and Ramos for two years.
According to court documents, Marcial Amaro and Ramos both worked for a company that provided acoustic emissions (AE) testing to nuclear power plants to detect structural defects in the plant’s equipment, including critical components within the nuclear reactors.
Between 2010 and 2021, Marcial Amaro was responsible for ensuring that the company’s AE testing equipment was calibrated annually; Ramos worked under Marcial Amaro as an engineer. The two men created numerous false calibration certificates for AE testing equipment and 15 of these false certificates were sent a total of 29 times to nuclear plant owners as part of final testing reports required by NRC. The falsified calibration certificates were discovered in 2021 during an external audit.
Assistant Attorney General Todd Kim of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division (ENRD) and U.S. Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania made the announcement.
The NRC’s Office of Investigation conducted the investigation.
Senior Trial Attorney Daniel Dooher and Trial Attorney Rachel M. Roberts of ENRD’s Environmental Crimes Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Joan E. Burnes for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania are prosecuting the case.
Two Maryland Men Charged with Killing Maryland Pro BoxerRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Jayvon Thomas, 20, and Lavar Hunter, 19, were arraigned today, in Superior Court for the District of Columbia, on one count of first degree felony murder while armed, for the November 2023 murder 24-year-old Anwar “The Silent Assassin” Wingate, a professional boxer from Maryland, during an armed robbery, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves.
The murder, on November 19, 2023, happened inside a parking garage located at 2112 8th Street NW. Wingate was shot in the neck after he tried to fight off the two men who were able to get the jump on him by catching him off guard. The defendants were arrested yesterday morning in Maryland. Both defendants entered not guilty pleas today. The Honorable Magistrate Judge Eric Glover found probable cause that the defendants committed the murder and held them without bond pending a preliminary hearing on February 2, 2024, at 10:00 a.m., before Judge Raffinan in Courtroom 203.
An arrest on a complaint is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed a violation of criminal laws and every defendant is presumed innocent until, and unless, proven guilty.
In announcing the charges, U.S. Attorney Graves commended the work of those investigating the case from the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) and Assistant United States Attorneys Kathleen Gibbons and Alec Levy for their continued efforts in prosecuting this case.
Two Charged with Firearms Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Alexander M.M. Uballez, United States Attorney for the District of New Mexico, and Brendan Iber, Special Agent in Charge of the Phoenix Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, announced that Anthony Stephen and Whitney Bisetti appeared in federal court on an indictment charging them with one count each of firearms trafficking conspiracy and transfer of a firearm not registered with the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record. Stephen is charged with an additional count of transfer of a firearm not registered with the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record. Stephen, 34, and Bisetti, 22, both of Albuquerque, were released on conditions pending trial, which has not yet been scheduled.
According to the indictment, between May 12 and Aug. 31, 2023, Stephen and Bisetti transferred a firearm to another person knowing that the use, carrying, and possession of a firearm by the recipient would constitute a felony. On Aug. 9, 2023, Stephen and Bisetti transferred a rifle with a barrel length less than 16 inches and an overall length less than 26 inches that was not registered in the National firearms Registration and Transfer Record. On Aug. 31, 2023, Stephen transferred a rifle with a barrel length less than 16 inches and an overall length less than 26 inches that was not registered in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record. The transfers are alleged to have occurred while Stephen and Bisetti worked at the Shooter’s Den store in Albuquerque.
An indictment is only an allegation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted, Stephen and Bisetti face up to 15 years in prison.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated this case. The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico is prosecuting the case. This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
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Trigger Man in Wilmington Funeral Home Shooting Sentenced to More Than 19 Years for Drug and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, N.C. – Charles Gilbert Green, age 29 of Leland, was sentenced to 232 months in federal prison for drug trafficking and firearm charges after he was identified as the shooter who fired multiple shots in broad daylight near a Wilmington funeral home. One person was injured in the shooting. On September 12, 2023, Green pled guilty to two counts of distribution of cocaine base (crack) and possession of ammunition by a convicted felon.
“We will continue to go after individuals involved in violent crime and will aggressively seek prosecution,” said Wilmington Police Chief Donny Williams. “I am proud of the continued work of our women and men and the partnerships we have with other agencies as well. We take the opportunity to serve and protect our community very seriously and will stop at nothing to do our part to help ensure our citizens have a safe place to live and work.”
According to court documents and other information presented in court, on April 2, 2022, at approximately 1:30 p.m. officers with the Wilmington Police Department were dispatched to the area of 6th and Red Cross Streets after receiving a ShotSpotter alert and multiple 911 calls about shots fired. Upon arrival, officers located one person suffering from multiple gunshot wounds and he was immediately transported to the hospital where he received treatment and recovered from his injuries. During their investigation, officers located almost a dozen fired shell casings. Officers were able to locate security camera footage which showed Charles Green firing multiple shots from the southeast corner of Red Cross Street towards a group of individuals standing near the funeral home and then get into a white Ford Flex and flee the scene.
After reviewing the video from the shooting and hearing evidence, the court found Mr. Green used a firearm in an attempted murder, which resulted in serious bodily injury to the victim. At the time of the shooting, Mr. Green was a convicted felon and was prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition. Mr. Green has prior convictions for assault with a deadly weapon inflicting serious injury, common law robbery, assault inflicting serious injury, resisting a public officer, and possession with intent to sell or deliver marijuana.
Members of the Brunswick County Vice and Narcotics Unit received information that a man that went by “CJ” was distributing narcotics in Leland. Law enforcement was able to identify “CJ” as Charles Gilbert Green, and then utilize a confidential informant to conduct controlled purchases of cocaine base (crack) from Green.
Michael Easley, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by Chief U.S. District Judge Richard E. Myers II. The FBI’s Coastal Carolina Safe Street’s Gang Task Force, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Brunswick County Vice and Narcotics Unit, the Wilmington Police Department, the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office, and the Wilmington Police Department’s Gun Crime Task Force investigated the case and Special Assistant United States Attorney William Van Trigt prosecuted the case. Van Trigt is a prosecutor with the New Hanover County District Attorney’s Office assigned to the United States Attorney’s Office to prosecute federal violent crimes and other criminal matters. This has been made possible by a grant funded by New Hanover County.
Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 7:23-cr-00014-M-001.
Tohajilee Man Pleads Guilty to Voluntary ManslaughterRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Alexander M.M. Uballez, United States Attorney for the District of New Mexico, and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office, announced today that Cole Ray Shorty pled guilty to voluntary manslaughter. Shorty, 19, of Tohajilee and an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, will remain in custody pending sentencing, which has not been scheduled.
A federal grand jury indicted Shorty on Sept. 27, 2022, along with his co-defendant, Keon Apachito. In his plea agreement, Shorty admitted that he went to John Doe’s home on May 27, 2022, to retrieve a backpack that he believed John Doe has stolen. Shorty approached John Doe while he was seated in his car in the driver’s seat and opened the back door of the car to look for his backpack. John Doe got out of the car with a baseball bat and a knife. After a struggle, John Doe dropped the bat. Shorty picked up the bat and hit John Doe with the baseball bat in his head, then left, leaving John Doe lying unconscious on the ground. The Office of the Medical Inspector’s found that the cause of John Doe’s death was blunt head trauma.
Per the terms of his plea agreement, Shorty faces up to 15 years in prison.
Apachito remains in custody pending trial, which is currently scheduled for June 10, 2024.
The FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brittany DuChaussee, Meg Tomlinson and Mark Probasco are prosecuting the case.
View the Information View the Plea Agreement# # #
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Timothy Carver Sentenced to 460 Months in Prison for Child Pornography OffensesRead the Press Release
GREENEVILLE, Tenn. – On January 25, 2023, Timothy Carver, 54, of Jonesborough, Tennessee, was sentenced to 460 months in prison by the Honorable Clifton L. Corker, United States District Judge, in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Tennessee at Greeneville.
Carver was convicted following a jury trial in April 2023 of knowingly producing child pornography, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2251(a); knowingly distributing child pornography, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2252A(a)(2)(A); and knowingly possessing child pornography involving a child less than 12 years of age, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2252A(a)(5)(B).
Evidence presented at trial proved the defendant videoed and photographed himself engaged in sexual acts with a two-year-old. The proof further showed that he distributed a child pornography video to an FBI Online Covert Agent using a messaging application. FBI agents searched the defendant’s cellular phone and discovered 1,735 photo and video files containing child pornography.
Carver will serve 460 months in prison and will also be subject to lifetime supervision and placement on the sex offender registry.
U.S. Attorney Francis M. Hamilton, III of the Eastern District of Tennessee and Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”) Special Agent in Charge Joseph E. Carrico, Federal Bureau of Investigation, made the announcement.
The FBI, including agents from the Johnson City, Tennessee, and Pittsburgh Pennsylvania Field Offices, led the investigation that resulted in the indictment and subsequent conviction of Carver. The Washington County Sheriff’s Office also provided assistance in the investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Emily Swecker and Thomas McCauley represented the United States.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, PSC marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about PSC, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
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Tennis Coach Convicted of Transporting Minor Across State Lines and Engaging in Sex ActsRead the Press Release
Montgomery, Alabama – On January 23, 2024, a federal jury in Dothan, Alabama convicted 51-year-old Leroy Thomas Joyner, Jr., from Columbus, Georgia, on one count of unlawfully transporting a minor across state lines with intent to engage in sexual activity, announced Acting United States Attorney Jonathan S. Ross.
According to court records and evidence presented during his trial, Joyner was a tennis coach operating an association in Dale County, Alabama. The association provided lessons to underprivileged children and teens. In September of 2018, reports of physical abuse were made to law enforcement alleging that Joyner had used a wooden paddle on some of his students. Law enforcement began to investigate these reports and found much more than physical abuse. Investigators discovered that, in late 2015, Joyner took a special interest in a 13-year-old female student. He began taking her out of state to play in tennis tournaments. Testimony given during Joyner’s trial indicated that he engaged in sex acts with the minor in multiple states, including Georgia, Louisiana, and South Carolina. This exploitation continued until the reports of abuse surfaced in 2018. At that time, the victim was 15.
Following the guilty verdict, Joyner faces a sentence of ten years to life in federal prison. When the trial ended, the judge remanded Joyner into custody. There is no parole in the federal system. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled for Joyner in the coming months.
“Safeguarding children from sexual exploitation and abuse is one of law enforcement’s most vital responsibilities,” said Acting United States Attorney Ross. “Through his position of authority, Joyner targeted young and vulnerable victims. His actions were reprehensible and caused lasting harm. I am grateful for the law enforcement agents and prosecutors who worked diligently to hold him accountable.”
Special Agent in Charge Paul Brown with the FBI stated, “Protecting our children is of paramount importance, and the FBI will work tirelessly with our law enforcement partners to prevent their victimization and to hold accountable those who abuse them.”
The FBI and the Dale County Sheriff’s Office investigated this case, which Assistant United States Attorneys Russell T. Duraski, Tara S. Ratz, and B. Chelsea Phillips prosecuted.
Tech Entrepreneur Charged in Offshore Tax Evasion SchemeRead the Press Release
An indictment was unsealed today in St. Paul, Minnesota, charging a former Excelsior, Minnesota, man with tax evasion, assisting in the preparation of false tax returns and making false statements to federal agents.
According to the indictment, from 2014 through 2018, David V. Erickson, a licensed CPA, engaged in a scheme to conceal from the IRS income that he earned abroad by falsely characterizing the funds he received as loans. Erickson allegedly owned and operated Halstead Bay Holdings (HBH), a Minnesota-based consulting company. HBH allegedly received payments from several foreign companies that Erickson partially owned. These foreign companies allegedly provided marketing and payment processing systems for an adult content website.
Erickson allegedly caused his foreign companies to transfer millions of dollars held offshore to bank accounts in the United States that he controlled. He allegedly directed his bookkeeper and others to falsely characterize those payments as nontaxable loans in HBH’s accounting records. HBH’s purported debt allegedly grew to nearly $5 million by the end of 2018. Erickson allegedly used the funds for personal expenses, including the purchase of a $1.3 million home and a luxury vehicle.
The indictment further alleges that Erickson provided false information to his accountants and bookkeepers, and, in turn, filed false federal income tax returns with the IRS. Erickson also allegedly lied to IRS Criminal Investigation special agents by claiming he had no authority to direct the foreign companies to send money.
If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison for each tax evasion count and for making a false statement to IRS-CI agents and three years in prison for each count of assisting in the preparation of false tax returns. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger for the District of Minnesota made the announcement.
IRS Criminal Investigation is investigating the case.
Trial Attorneys Amanda R. Scott and Boris Bourget of the Justice Department’s Tax Division are prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Three Nigerian Citizens Indicted for Wire Fraud and Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
Gregory J. Haanstad, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced today that on January 23, 2024, a grand jury returned a superseding indictment charging Nigerian citizens John Umukoro, Shedrack Umukoro, and Otaniyen Iduozee with conspiracy to commit wire fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1349; wire fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1343; and conspiracy to commit money laundering, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1956.
According to filed court documents, between November of 2021 and May of 2022, the defendants participated in an extensive scheme to fraudulently obtain and then launder money from American citizens who believed they were loaning funds to their romantic partners. According to court filings, the defendants posed as older men looking for connections on dating websites and engaged in text-based romantic relationships with older women. Once the defendants gained their victims’ trust, they began to “borrow” money from their victims, for allegedly urgent and short-term financial needs. Court filings further indicate that those “loans” were never repaid, however, and multiple victims ultimately lost their life savings. Finally, filings indicate that after obtaining the victims’ funds, the defendants laundered them through multiple transactions and moved the funds overseas.
If convicted, each of these offenses carries a maximum of twenty years in prison and up to three years of supervised release.
The Department of Homeland Security investigated the case, which Assistant United States Attorney Rebecca Taibleson will prosecute.
The public is cautioned that an indictment or criminal complaint is merely a charge and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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Surgical Sales Representatives Plead Guilty to Conspiracy to Commit Bribery and Honest Services Wire Fraud Against the Quillen VA Medical CenterRead the Press Release
GRENNEVILLE, Tenn. – On January 25, 2024, Eric S. Smith, 54, currently of Bristol, Virginia, and Landon Chester, 36, currently of Johnson City, Tennessee, entered guilty pleas to conspiracy to commit bribery and honest services wire fraud before the Honorable Clifton L. Corker. Smith’s sentencing has been set for May 30, 2024, at 11 a.m., and Chester’s sentencing has been set for May 30, 2024, at 1:30 p.m., in the United States District Court at Greeneville.
Smith and Chester both face a term of up to 5 years in Federal prison, $250,000 in fines, and supervised release of three years. Under their written plea agreements, both must also pay restitution and have agreed to forfeit seized bank accounts totaling over $156,000.
As part of written plea agreements, Smith and Chester waived indictment by a Federal Grand Jury and agreed to plead guilty to an information. According to the plea agreements, both Smith and Chester worked as a surgical sales representative for an independent distributor of a nationwide orthopedic company that manufactured replacement joints and products used during surgeries in which those joints were implanted. Both routinely sold products to the James H. Quillen VA Medical Center in Mountain Home, Tennessee. In June 2018, Chester and Smith formed a separate company and began selling their own acquired inventory to the VA at inflated prices or when not necessary, resulting in losses to the VA in excess of $850,000. Chester and Smith agreed that they conspired and paid cash bribes of more than $80,000 to two VA Medical Center employees (indicted separately) for their agreement to commit, collude, and aid in the fraud against the VA.
U.S. Attorney Francis M. Hamilton III of the Eastern District of Tennessee; Kim Lampkins, Special Agent-in-Charge, Mid-Atlantic Field Office, VA Office of the Inspector General; Elisa Pellegrini, Special Agent-in-Charge, GSA Office of the Inspector General, Mid-Atlantic Division; and Donald “Trey” Eakins, Special Agent-in-Charge, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, made the announcement.
This prosecution is the result of an ongoing investigation by the VA Office of the Inspector General, GSA Office of the Inspector General, and the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation.
Mac D. Heavener, III, Assistant United States Attorney represented the United States.
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Stilwell Resident Pleads Guilty to Sexual AbuseRead the Press Release
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Joseph Gene Christie, age 18, of Stilwell, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to one count of Sexual Abuse in Indian Country.
The Information alleged that Christie sexually assaulted a victim in March of 2023. The crime occurred in Adair County, within the boundaries of the Cherokee Nation Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Stilwell Police Department, and the Cherokee Nation Marshal Service.
The Honorable Jason A. Robertson, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report. Christie was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshal pending the sentencing hearing.
Assistant United States Attorneys Nicole Paladino and Benjamin D. Traster represented the United States.
Springfield Man Sentenced to 7 Years in Prison for Gun Offense, Violating Supervised ReleaseRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that BRANDON BLANKS, 38, of Springfield, Massachusetts, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill in Bridgeport to 84 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for unlawfully possessing a firearm, and for violating the conditions of his supervised release from a prior federal conviction.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Blanks was arrested on November 2, 2021, after he broke into an Enfield apartment carrying a loaded firearm and threatened an individual. Responding officers located a polymer80 9mm firearm (“ghost gun”) with an extended magazine containing 24 rounds of ammunition. In Blanks’ car, officers found and seized a loaded Ruger 9mm firearm and a bag containing approximately 72 grams of crack cocaine and approximately 400 bags of para-Flourofentanyl, a fentanyl analogue.
Blanks’ criminal history includes felony convictions for assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, armed robbery, carrying a firearm without a license, and multiple drug offenses, including a federal drug conviction in 2018 in the District of Vermont. Blanks was on federal supervised release at the time of his criminal conduct in November 2021.
It is a violation of federal law for a person previously convicted of a felony offense to possess a firearm or ammunition that has moved in interstate or foreign commerce.
Blanks has been detained since his arrest. On November 29, 2022, he pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition by a felon.
This matter was investigated by the Enfield Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Reed Durham.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Sinaloa Cartel Associate Sentenced to More Than 12 Years in Federal Prison for Trafficking Kilogram Quantities of CocaineRead the Press Release
RALEIGH, N.C. – An Elloree, South Carolina man was sentenced to 151 months in prison for conspiring to distribute and possessing with the intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine. On October 13, 2023, Ricardo Baltazar-Aguirre pled guilty to the charges.
According to court documents and other information presented in court, Baltazar-Aguirre, 52, conspired with Oscar Nunez-Cortes, 26, of Saint Matthews, South Carolina to distribute ten kilograms of cocaine to an individual in Fayetteville. On January 6, 2023, Nunez-Cortes drove to meet Baltazar-Aguirre at a house in Elloree, South Carolina. There, Baltazar-Aguirre and another man loaded 10 kilograms of cocaine into an SUV driven by Nunez-Cortes. Nunez-Cortes and his girlfriend then traveled to an agreed upon location in Fayetteville to meet the buyer. As they traveled Baltazar-Aguirre and his companion trailed their vehicle. North Carolina State Highway Patrol conducted traffic stops on both vehicles as they crossed into Cumberland County on Interstate 95. A search of Nunez-Cortes’s car revealed 10 kilograms of cocaine packaged in kilogram quantities in a large duffel bag in the back seat. A search of Baltazar-Aguirre’s truck revealed a handgun in the glovebox.
An examination of Baltazar-Aguirre’s phones revealed that he frequently communicated with a Mexican phone number that was saved in his contacts as “Sinaloa” that belongs to a suspected Sinaloan Cartel member. Baltazar-Aguirre discussed the sale and distribution of narcotics with “Sinaloa” ultimately receiving permission to conduct the deal with Nunez-Cortes. Nunez-Cortes was a heavy user of cocaine and would purchase an ounce or two a week from Baltazar-Aguirre before meeting the buyer and attempting to set up his own drug deal.
Nunez-Cortes previously pled guilty to possession with the intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine.
Michael Easley, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Terrence W. Boyle. Homeland Security Investigations, the Drug Enforcement Agency, the Nashville Police Department, Nash County Sheriff’s Office, and the NC State Highway Patrol investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Erin Blondel and Phil Aubart prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on our website. Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 7:23-cr-00016-BO.
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San Antonio Man Pleads Guilty to Fraud and Bribery ChargesRead the Press Release
SAN ANTONIO – A San Antonio man pleaded guilty yesterday to charges stemming from two separate indictments – one charging fraud and the other charging bribery.
According to court documents, Javor McCoy, 42, while trying to avoid a civil court appearance in Dallas, transmitted a criminal summons to an employee with the Dallas County Court showing he had to appear in court for a Western District of Texas federal indictment. The summons contained a false and fraudulent electronic signature of a United States magistrate judge and was altered to display a fictious appearance date for McCoy.
McCoy was previously charged on another case involving bribery of a public official. McCoy owned Ready 2 Go Transport Central LLC (R2G Central), a purported Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business, providing transportation for veterans, including ambulance and wheelchair transportation.
His co-defendant on the bribery case, Glenn Dartone Johnson, 49, of San Antonio, was the contracting officer with the Department of Veteran’s Affairs (VA). McCoy paid Johnson approximately $100,000 for information regarding the VA bid process and for Johnson’s assistance in influencing the VA bid process to help R2G Central win competitive bids from the VA.
McCoy pleaded guilty to one count of fraud in connection with identification documents or authentication features and one count of conspiracy to commit bribery of a public official. A sentencing date has not been set. McCoy faces a maximum prison term of 15 years on the fraud count and a maximum prison term of five years on the bribery charge. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Johnson pleaded guilty on December 20, 2023, to one count of conspiracy to commit bribery of a public official. Johnson is set for sentencing on March 14, 2024.
U.S. Attorney Jaime Esparza of the Western District of Texas and Acting Special Agent in Charge Doug Olson for the FBI San Antonio Division made the announcement.
The FBI and VA-OIG are investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin Chung and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Porier are prosecuting the case.
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Saint Bernard Man Pleads Guilty to Violations of the Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that ROBERT C. METZLER, age 60, pled guilty on January 23, 2024 before United States District Court Judge Jay C. Zainey to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute a quantity of carisoprodol, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), and 846 (Count 1), and possession with intent to distribute forty (40) grams or more of fentanyl and a quantity of cocaine, oxycodone and marijuana, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B), 841(b)(1)(C), and 841(b)(1)(D) (Count 2).
As to Count 1, METZLER faces up to twenty (20) years imprisonment, up to a $1,000,000 fine, at least 3 years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100. As to Count 2, METZLER faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years and up to 40 years imprisonment, up to a $5,000,000 fine, at least 4 years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.
According to court records, METZLER conspired to receive shipments of carisoprodol from outside of the United States with intent to distribute and possess with intent to distribute this controlled substance within the Eastern District of Louisiana. Following the execution of a search warrant for METZLER’s home, agents recovered multiple controlled substances and documents associated with drug transactions .
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the United States Postal Inspectors Office, and the Saint Bernard Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Lynn E. Schiffman of the Narcotics Unit.
St. Thomas Man Pleads Guilty to Trafficking FentanylRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – United States Attorney Delia L. Smith announced today that on January 18,
2024, Tahir Donadelle, of St. Thomas, entered a guilty plea before U.S. Magistrate Judge Ruth
Miller to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.According to court documents, on September 8, 2022, Donadelle arrived at the Cyril E. King
airport in St. Thomas after disembarking a flight from Atlanta, GA. Customs and Border
Protection (CBP) officers were screening luggage from the flight and noticed that a suitcase
appeared to contain marijuana. The officers placed the suitcase on the luggage carousel and
observed Donadelle retrieve the suitcase. A CBP officer then escorted Donadelle for screening
and inspection. Donadelle claimed the suitcase as his property. CBP officers then searched the
suitcase and found three packages which contained 964 light blue pills. The U.S. Drug
Enforcement Administration (DEA) laboratory confirmed that the pills contained 109 grams of
fentanyl.Donadelle faces up to 20 years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine. He will be sentenced after the
completion of a presentence investigation report by the U.S. Probation Office. A federal district
court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and
other statutory factors.This case was investigated by CBP and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. The case is
being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kyle Payne.Russian National Sentenced for Involvement in Development and Deployment of Trickbot MalwareRead the Press Release
A Russian national was sentenced yesterday to five years and four months in prison for his involvement in developing and deploying the malicious software known as Trickbot, which was used to launch cyberattacks against American hospitals and other businesses.
According to court documents and public reporting, Vladimir Dunaev, 40, of Amur Oblast, Russia, provided specialized services and technical abilities in furtherance of the Trickbot scheme. Trickbot, which was taken down in 2022, was a suite of malware tools designed to steal money and facilitate the installation of ransomware. Hospitals, schools, and businesses were among the millions of Trickbot victims who suffered tens of millions of dollars in losses. While active, Trickbot malware, which acted as an initial intrusion vector into victim computer systems, was used to support various ransomware variants.
“This sentencing demonstrates the department’s ability to place cybercriminals behind bars, no matter where they are located,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “In cooperation with our partners around the world, we will continue to bring cybercriminals to justice.”
“Dunaev developed malicious ransomware and deployed it to attack American hospitals, schools, and businesses in the Northern District of Ohio and throughout our country, all while hiding behind his computer,” said U.S. Attorney Rebecca C. Lutzko for the Northern District of Ohio. “He and his co-defendants caused immeasurable disruption and financial damage, maliciously infecting millions of computers worldwide, and Dunaev will now spend over five years behind bars as a result. Dunaev’s case demonstrates that the Justice Department and our office will use all available resources to investigate and prosecute cybercrime, and we thank our international partners for their cooperation in helping us stop cybercriminals like Dunaev and bring them to justice.”
Dunaev developed browser modifications and malicious tools that aided in credential harvesting and data mining from infected computers, facilitated and enhanced the remote access used by Trickbot actors, and created a program code to prevent the Trickbot malware from being detected by legitimate security software. During Dunaev’s participation in the scheme, 10 victims in the Northern District of Ohio, including Avon schools and a North Canton real-estate company, were defrauded of more than $3.4 million via ransomware deployed by Trickbot.
“The FBI relentlessly investigates criminal activity impacting the American people even when the perpetrators reside beyond our borders,” said Assistant Director Bryan Vorndran of the FBI’s Cyber Division. “Combating malicious cyber actors is a team sport, and we are proud of the coordinated effort that brought about this sentencing.”
“This case and subsequent sentencing sends a strong message to cybercriminals and other bad actors who target individuals and businesses with malicious intent,” said Special Agent in Charge Greg Nelsen of the FBI Cleveland Field Office. “The complexities of this case required careful coordination among our domestic and international partners and their commitment to meticulous investigative work. I am proud of the synchronized effort to see that justice was served.”
In 2021, Dunaev was extradited from the Republic of Korea to the Northern District of Ohio. On Nov. 30, 2023, Dunaev pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit computer fraud and identity theft and conspiracy to commit wire fraud and bank fraud.
The original indictment returned in the Northern District of Ohio charged Dunaev and six other defendants for their alleged roles in developing, deploying, managing, and profiting from Trickbot.
In June, one of Dunaev’s co-conspirators, Alla Witte, who was a Trickbot malware developer and Latvian national, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit computer fraud and was sentenced to two years and eight months in prison.
In February and September 2023, the Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) issued financial sanctions against multiple suspected Trickbot members.
The FBI Cleveland Field Office investigated the case.
Trial Attorney Candy Heath of the Criminal Division’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Duncan Brown and Daniel Riedl for the Northern District of Ohio prosecuted the case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs and National Security Division, as well as the Treasury Department’s OFAC, provided significant assistance.
The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs worked with the International Criminal Affairs Division of the South Korean Ministry of Justice to secure the arrest and extradition of Dunaev.
Russian National Sentenced for Involvement in Development and Deployment of Trickbot MalwareRead the Press Release
A Russian national was sentenced yesterday to five years and four months in prison for his involvement in developing and deploying the malicious software known as Trickbot, which was used to launch cyberattacks against American hospitals and other businesses.
According to court documents and public reporting, Vladimir Dunaev, 40, of Amur Oblast, Russia, provided specialized services and technical abilities in furtherance of the Trickbot scheme. Trickbot, which was taken down in 2022, was a suite of malware tools designed to steal money and facilitate the installation of ransomware. Hospitals, schools, and businesses were among the millions of Trickbot victims who suffered tens of millions of dollars in losses. While active, Trickbot malware, which acted as an initial intrusion vector into victim computer systems, was used to support various ransomware variants.
“This sentencing demonstrates the department’s ability to place cybercriminals behind bars, no matter where they are located,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “In cooperation with our partners around the world, we will continue to bring cybercriminals to justice.”
“Dunaev developed malicious ransomware and deployed it to attack American hospitals, schools, and businesses in the Northern District of Ohio and throughout our country, all while hiding behind his computer,” said U.S. Attorney Rebecca C. Lutzko for the Northern District of Ohio. “He and his co-defendants caused immeasurable disruption and financial damage, maliciously infecting millions of computers worldwide, and Dunaev will now spend over five years behind bars as a result. Dunaev’s case demonstrates that the Justice Department and our office will use all available resources to investigate and prosecute cybercrime, and we thank our international partners for their cooperation in helping us stop cybercriminals like Dunaev and bring them to justice.”
Dunaev developed browser modifications and malicious tools that aided in credential harvesting and datamining from infected computers, facilitated and enhanced the remote access used by Trickbot actors, and created a program code to prevent the Trickbot malware from being detected by legitimate security software. During Dunaev’s participation in the scheme, 10 victims in the Northern District of Ohio, including Avon schools and a North Canton real-estate company, were defrauded of more than $3.4 million via ransomware deployed by Trickbot.
“The FBI relentlessly investigates criminal activity impacting the American people even when the perpetrators reside beyond our borders,” said Assistant Director Bryan Vorndran of the FBI’s Cyber Division. “Combating malicious cyber actors is a team sport, and we are proud of the coordinated effort that brought about this sentencing.”
“This case and subsequent sentencing sends a strong message to cybercriminals and other bad actors who target individuals and businesses with malicious intent,” said Special Agent in Charge Greg Nelsen of the FBI Cleveland Field Office. “The complexities of this case required careful coordination among our domestic and international partners and their commitment to meticulous investigative work. I am proud of the synchronized effort to see that justice was served.”
In 2021, Dunaev was extradited from the Republic of Korea to the Northern District of Ohio. On Nov. 30, 2023, Dunaev pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit computer fraud and identity theft and conspiracy to commit wire fraud and bank fraud.
The original indictment returned in the Northern District of Ohio charged Dunaev and six other defendants for their alleged roles in developing, deploying, managing, and profiting from Trickbot.
In June, one of Dunaev’s co-conspirators, Alla Witte, who was a Trickbot malware developer and Latvian national, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit computer fraud and was sentenced to two years and eight months in prison.
In February and September 2023, the Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) issued financial sanctions against multiple suspected Trickbot members.
The FBI Cleveland Field Office investigated the case.
Trial Attorney Candy Heath of the Criminal Division’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Duncan Brown and Daniel Riedl for the Northern District of Ohio prosecuted the case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs and National Security Division, as well as the Treasury Department’s OFAC, provided significant assistance.
The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs worked with the International Criminal Affairs Division of the South Korean Ministry of Justice to secure the arrest and extradition of Dunaev.
Rochester man pleads guilty to child pornography charge involving cameras hidden in a church bathroomRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Stephen Nicot, 61, of Rochester, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr. to receipt of child pornography, which carries a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum of 20 years, and a $250,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan K. McGuire, who is handling the case, stated that between 2012 and 2014, Nicot hid a camera in the bathroom of a church located in the Western District of New York. Nicot positioned the camera so that it would capture video and images of naked individuals using the shower in the church bathroom. He did this knowing some of the individuals would be under the age of 18 and he planned to display the video of the minors. On July 21, 2022, law enforcement executed a warrant at the Nicot’s residence and recovered a memory card and USB drive, which contained videos and images of at least five minor victims using the church bathroom and shower. Two cell phones were also seized, which contained naked images of a minor victim that were recorded by a camera hidden in a bathroom of Nicot’s residence.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Todd Baxter and the Federal Bureau of Investigation Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force, under the direction Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia.
Sentencing is scheduled for May 6, 2024, before Judge Geraci.
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Repeat Chico Sex Offender Sentenced to 10 Years for Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Jason Morgan, 46, of Chico, was sentenced Thursday to 10 years in prison for possession of child pornography, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.
According to court documents, in December 2020, Morgan possessed child pornography while on federal supervised release for prior federal convictions for distribution of child pornography, receipt of child pornography, possession of child pornography, and the use of a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a visual depiction.
This case was the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alstyn Bennett and Audrey B. Hemesath prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute those who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.
Portland Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Role in Armed Robbery Targeting Southern Oregon Marijuana GrowerRead the Press Release
MEDFORD, Ore.—On January 24, 2024, a Portland, Oregon man with a lengthy criminal history was sentenced to federal prison for his role in an armed robbery targeting a southern Oregon marijuana grower.
Kenan Dizdarevic, 35, was sentenced to 107 months in federal prison and three years’ supervised release. He was also ordered to pay restitution to his victims.
“Mr. Dizdarevic and his accomplices—pretending to be police armed with firearms and outfitted in body armor and ski masks—placed their victims in a horribly dangerous and frightening situation. Our office is committed to holding defendants like Mr. Dizdarevic accountable and combating violent crime throughout Oregon,” said Nathan J. Lichvarcik, Chief of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Eugene and Medford Branch Offices.
“This is a well-deserved sentence,” said ATF Seattle Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Blais. “Mr. Dizdarevic and his accomplices committed robbery, impersonated law enforcement, stole a vehicle and fled from actual law enforcement. Their actions were extremely brazen and posed a great danger to the community.”
According to court documents, in the early morning hours of November 2, 2019, Dizdarevic and another individual entered a residence located on a secluded marijuana grow in Eagle Point, Oregon. Wearing dark clothing, gloves, body armor, and ski masks and armed with multiple firearms, Dizdarevic and his accomplice shouted, “police search warrant” before handcuffing and placing two individuals found inside the residence face down on the floor. Dizdarevic and his accomplice demanded money and guns from the two victims and eventually made off with more than 30 pounds of marijuana and one of the victim’s vehicles.
Soon after, law enforcement located the stolen vehicle traveling with another car on Interstate 5. After a lengthy pursuit that exceeded 120 miles per hour and traversed three counties, the stolen vehicle successfully eluded law enforcement. After being disabled by a spike strip, the second vehicle came to a stop in Douglas County, Oregon, and the driver, who investigators later connected the Eagle Point robbery, fled on foot. Law enforcement executed a search warrant on the vehicle and located ski masks, zip ties, handcuffs, tactical vests, and multiple firearms. Investigators determined that Dizdarevic, the driver who fled on foot and was later apprehended, and a third individual traveled together to the Eagle Point robbery in the vehicle. Dizdarevic’s fingerprints, DNA, and various personal belongings were located in the vehicle.
On February 19, 2021, Dizdarevic was charged by criminal complaint with interfering with commerce by robbery; conspiring with others to possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance; and using, carrying, or brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. He was arrested on June 29, 2022, and on August 23, 2023, he pleaded guilty to a two-count criminal information charging him with interfering with commerce by robbery and conspiring with others to possess with intent to distribute marijuana.
On March 2, 2023, Shannon Christopher Harrop, 34, of Wilsonville, Oregon was sentenced to 162 months in federal prison and five years’ supervised release for organizing the Eagle Point robbery Dizdarevic participated in and other robberies. 10 individuals, including Harrop and Dizdarevic were charged and have pleaded guilty for their roles in these robberies. Dizdarevic is the eighth defendant to be sentenced and the final two are pending sentencing.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service, Oregon State Police, the Josephine County Sheriff’s Office, and Medford Police Department. It was prosecuted by Marco Boccato, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.
Pittsburgh Man Indicted on Cyberstalking ChargeRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a cyberstalking charge, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan, announced today.
The Indictment named Daniel Marsico, 37, as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment, over the course of three and a half years, Marsico harassed, threatened, and intimidated his ex-girlfriend, Person 1, by stalking her through text messages, phone calls, online, and in person. The Indictment alleges: after their relationship ended in 2020, Marsico messaged Person 1 persistently, continuing even after Person 1 obtained a court order (a Pennsylvania Protection from Abuse Order, or PFA) against him and after he was arrested. Marsico’s messages threatened Person 1, threatened her employment, and threatened other people in her life. He produced surreptitious, lewd, and embarrassing images of Person 1 and used those images to create fake social media accounts in her name. Marsico also posted about Person 1 on other internet websites. During the course of his criminal conduct, Marsico physically assaulted Person 1’s ex-boyfriend. He came to Person 1’s home uninvited multiple times, placing her in fear and forcing her to seek safety elsewhere. Marsico kicked in Person 1’s door, caused other damage to her home, and threatened to dismantle her security cameras. He surveilled her home and messaged her the license plate numbers of cars he thought were visiting her. When Person 1 blocked Marsico’s phone number, he called and messaged her using anonymous means. When Person 1 sought the assistance of law enforcement, Marsico escalated his threats and asserted that he would never be convicted of stalking her. Marsico’s course of conduct placed Person 1 in reasonable fear of death and serious bodily injury and caused Person 1 substantial emotional distress.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than one but not more than five years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Nicole Vasquez Schmitt is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Scott Township Police conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Pennsylvania Resident Indicted for Defrauding Allied World Insurance CompanyRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Robert Fuller, Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, today announced that a federal grand jury in New Haven has returned a 10-count indictment charging JAMES KEATING, 51, of Paoli, Pennsylvania, with offenses stemming from an alleged fraud scheme against his former employer.
The indictment was returned on January 16, 2024, and Keating surrendered to authorities in Philadelphia on January 18. He appeared today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Thomas O. Farrish in Hartford, pleaded not guilty, and was released on a $100,000 bond.
As alleged in the indictment, Keating was an Assistant Vice President and surety bond claims handler at Allied World Insurance Company (“Allied World”). He later served in the same capacity at Crum and Forster subsidiary U.S. Fire Insurance Company, where he also handled claims on Allied World surety bonds. All surety bond claims were handled through Allied World’s offices in Farmington, Connecticut. Between 2017 and 2021, Keating defrauded Allied World in two ways. First, he used a shell company, American Construction & Industrial LLC, to bill Allied World for unnecessary claims work that was not performed and took the proceeds for himself. Second, he solicited and received kickbacks from Allied World vendors through another Keating-owned company, Surety Risk Solutions (also known as “SRS” or “SR5”), without the knowledge of his employer. Keating also caused these vendors to use another company in which he had an undisclosed ownership interest, Kodiak Asset Recovery, for asset searches at vastly inflated prices. Keating profited nearly $1 million through American Construction & Industrial LLC, more than $350,000 in kickbacks through Surety Risk Solutions, and nearly $125,000 through Kodiak Asset Recovery.
The indictment charges Keating with 10 counts of wire fraud, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years on each count.
U.S. Attorney Avery stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This matter is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David E. Novick.
Owner of Suburban Chicago Construction Company Pleads Guilty to Federal Bribery ChargesRead the Press Release
CHICAGO — The owner of a suburban Chicago construction company has pleaded guilty to federal bribery charges for conspiring to bribe an employee of the Cook County Assessor’s Office in return for favorable property assessments.
ALEX NITCHOFF, 56, of Lemont, Ill., pleaded guilty Wednesday to one count of conspiring to corruptly give something of value to influence and reward a public official, and one count of using an interstate facility to facilitate bribery. Each count is punishable by up to five years in federal prison. U.S. District Judge John F. Kness set sentencing for May 8, 2024.
Nitchoff admitted in a plea agreement that from 2016 to 2019 he conspired with others to corruptly provide home improvement services and materials to Cook County Assessor’s Office employee LAVDIM MEMISOVSKI, who assessed property values and reviewed property tax appeals for Cook County commercial properties. Nitchoff and others provided free home improvement services and materials at Memisovski’s personal residence, including a concrete pad, decking materials, dumpster usage, fascias and soffits, a fence, a gas line, heads for a sprinkler system, tile, and windows, the plea agreement states. In return for the benefits, Memisovski took official action to reduce the property taxes owed for Nitchoff’s properties by at least $550,000, the plea agreement states.
One of Nitchoff’s employees, JOHN BODENDORFER, 56, of Chicago, has pleaded not guilty to participating in the bribery scheme and is awaiting trial. Memisovski, 45, of Burbank, Ill., pleaded guilty last year to a conspiracy charge and is awaiting sentencing.
Nitchoff’s guilty plea was announced by Morris Pasqual, Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, and Robert W. “Wes” Wheeler, Jr., Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Office of the FBI. Valuable assistance was provided by the IRS Criminal Investigation Division and the City of Chicago Inspector General’s Office. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Vikas Didwania and Thomas Peabody.
Nitchoff, Bodendorfer, and Memisovski were among seven people charged in connection with the federal investigation. Two other Cook County Assessor’s Office employees, BASILIO CLAUSEN, 51, of Crown Point, Ind., and LUMNI LIKOVSKI, 47, of Burbank, Ill., have pleaded not guilty to bribery charges and are awaiting trial in connection with a scheme in which they allegedly accepted bribes from the owner of a fence installation company in return for reducing property assessments. The fence company owner, ROBERT MITZIGA, 65, of Dyer, Ind., also pleaded not guilty to bribery charges and is awaiting trial. The seventh defendant, former City of Chicago building inspector JOSEPH E. GARCIA, was sentenced to probation for falsely claiming to have inspected home repair projects for low-income Chicago homeowners, allowing the city to pay a contractor for work that at the time had not been performed.
The public is reminded that the defendants who have pleaded not guilty are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial at which the government has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. If convicted, the Court must impose a reasonable sentence under federal statutes and the advisory U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.
Operation Smoke and Mirrors Update: Charleston Man Sentenced to Prison for Role in Methamphetamine Trafficking OrganizationRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Keith Royal Goode-Harper, 32, of Charleston, was sentenced today to two years in prison, to be followed by one year of supervised release, for his role in a drug trafficking organization (DTO) that operated in the Charleston area.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on January 25, 2023, Goode-Harper obtained 7 ounces of methamphetamine from co-defendant Karl Lamont Funderburk at Funderburk’s residence in Charleston. Goode-Harper admitted that he arranged the purchase with Funderburk in advance over a series of cell phone calls. Goode-Harper further admitted that he had asked to purchase 10 ounces of methamphetamine for a customer, but that Funderburk told him that he only had 7 ounces of methamphetamine available.
Goode-Harper conducted two other transactions with Funderburk during this time period, obtaining over 1 pound of methamphetamine from Funderburk to sell to third-party customers.
Goode-Harper and Funderburk are among 32 individuals indicted as a result of Operation Smoke and Mirrors, a major drug trafficking investigation that has yielded the largest methamphetamine seizure in West Virginia history. Law enforcement seized well over 400 pounds of methamphetamine as well as 40 pounds of cocaine, 3 pounds of fentanyl, 19 firearms and $935,000 in cash.
Goode-Harper pleaded guilty on September 12, 2023, to use of a communication facility to facilitate drug trafficking. Funderburk, 37, of Charleston, pleaded guilty on December 6, 2023, to conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, conspiracy to distribute a quantity of cocaine, and conspiracy to distribute a quantity of fentanyl. Funderburk awaits sentencing.
Goode-Harper and Funderburk are among 27 defendants who have pleaded guilty. Indictments against the other defendants are pending. An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the U.S. Department of Homeland Security-Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT), the West Virginia State Police, the West Virginia National Guard Counter Drug program, the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office, the Charleston Police Department, the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office and the Raleigh County Sheriff's Office. MDENT is composed of the Charleston Police Department, the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office, the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office, the Nitro Police Department, the St. Albans Police Department and the South Charleston Police Department.
Chief United States District Judge Thomas E. Johnston imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Jeremy B. Wolfe prosecuted the case.
The investigation was part of the Department of Justice’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). The program was established in 1982 to conduct comprehensive, multilevel attacks on major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and is the keystone of the Department of Justice’s drug reduction strategy. OCDETF combines the resources and expertise of its member federal agencies in cooperation with state and local law enforcement. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking organizations, transnational criminal organizations and money laundering organizations that present a significant threat to the public safety, economic, or national security of the United States.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:23-cr-135.
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Ohio man sentenced for federal drug chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Robert L. Bruce, age 42, of Groveport, Ohio, was sentenced today to 60 months in federal prison for distribution of methamphetamine.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Bruce, also known as “Miami,” sold methamphetamine in Marshall County, WV. During the investigation, Bruce’s vehicle was searched, and officers found nearly 800 grams of methamphetamine hidden in the engine compartment.
The Marshall County Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Clayton Reid prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
U.S. District Judge John Preston Bailey presided.
Ohio Man and Charleston Man Sentenced to Prison for Federal Drug CrimesRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Today, Tevon O'Shea Vanhorn, also known as "Von," 29, of Columbus, Ohio, was sentenced to 17 years and six months in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release, and Toby Lee Graley, 60, of Charleston, was sentenced to eight years in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl.
According to court documents and statements made in court, from at least June 2022 to on or about March 2023, Vanhorn obtained methamphetamine and fentanyl and distributed quantities of the controlled substances to Graley and several other customers at multiple locations within the Southern District of West Virginia. Vanhorn communicated with his customers by cell phone to arrange drug-related transactions, and knew that several of his customers redistributed the methamphetamine and fentanyl he sold them.
On February 21, 2022, Vanhorn attempted to mail a package containing approximately $74,835 from Charleston, West Virginia, to Detroit, Michigan, as part of the drug distribution conspiracy. Law enforcement officers intercepted and seized the package.
Since at least June 2022, Graley conspired with Vanhorn and several other people to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl. Graley obtained methamphetamine and fentanyl from Vanhorn and distributed the controlled substances to customers at his Lumari Lane residence in Charleston and other locations within the Southern District of West Virginia. Graley arranged drug-related transactions on his cell phone with Vanhorn and customers. Graley knew several of his customers would redistribute the methamphetamine and fentanyl he sold them.
United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the U.S. Department of Homeland Security-Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the U.S. Route 119 Drug Task Force, the West Virginia State Police, the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office, and the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS).
United States District Judge Irene C. Berger imposed the sentences. Assistant United States Attorneys Ryan A. Keefe and JC MacCallum prosecuted the case.
The case is a result of “Operation Into The Woods,” a 10-month investigation of drug trafficking in Kanawha and Boone counties. Law enforcement seized 120 grams of methamphetamine, four shotguns, and approximately $23,150 from Graley when he was arrested.
The investigation was part of the Department of Justice’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). OCDETF was established in 1982 to conduct comprehensive, multilevel attacks on major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and is the keystone of the Department of Justice’s drug reduction strategy. Today, OCDETF combines the resources and expertise of its member federal agencies in cooperation with state and local law enforcement. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking organizations, transnational criminal organizations, and money laundering organizations that present a significant threat to the public safety, economic, or national security of the United States.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2-23-cr-44.
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Ohio Man Sentenced to Prison for Dogfighting and Drug DistributionRead the Press Release
An Ohio man was sentenced today to 21 months in prison and three years supervised release after pleading guilty to dogfighting and fentanyl distribution. For today’s sentence, he will serve nine months concurrent with, and 12 months after, the 10 years he is already serving on the drug charges.
Michael Valentine, 40, of Bidwell, previously pleaded guilty to two counts of raising and training dogs for the purpose of fighting, and five counts related to fentanyl distribution. He was sentenced on Jan. 26, 2023, to serve 10 years in prison for the drug distribution charge and five years of supervised release. In total, Valentine will serve 11 years in prison followed by five years of supervised release.
“Dogfighting is a barbaric offense that cruelly harms animals and endangers the surrounding community,” said Assistant Attorney General Todd Kim of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division. “Today’s sentencing demonstrates that those engaged in this horrific practice face significant punishment.”
“Valentine’s crimes endangered both humans and dogs,” said U.S. Attorney Kenneth L. Parker for the Southern District of Ohio. “Thanks to the work of our investigative partners, hundreds of grams of fentanyl were taken out of circulation before reaching our local communities and more than 50 dogs were removed from the defendant. It is appropriate that Valentine will spend a significant amount of time in federal prison.”
“The relevant provisions of the Animal Welfare Act were designed to protect animals from being used in illegal fighting ventures, which often entail other forms of criminal activity including drug trafficking and illegal possession of firearms,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Robert J. Springer of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Office of Inspector General (USDA-OIG). “The USDA-OIG thanks the Justice Department, who prosecuted the case, and Gallia County Sheriff’s Office and the FBI for their assistance with the investigation.”
According to court documents, law enforcement first investigated Valentine for dogfighting offenses in 2019 after a dog attacked a small child living with him. That investigation led to a search warrant of the Valentine’s residence and the seizure of 40 dogs. The search also recovered numerous items of dog fighting paraphernalia, including treadmills, veterinary supplies and dogfighting videos.
On March 8, 2022, a second search warrant was executed at the Valentine’s residence as part of a fentanyl-distribution investigation. That search revealed dog fighting paraphernalia, as well as two assault-style rifles. In addition, a search of a nearby parcel of land revealed 677 grams of fentanyl and 69 grams of cocaine packaged for distribution, and an additional 11 dogs, which Valentine was keeping for purposes of dogfighting. Valentine had previously sold 141 grams of fentanyl from the property.
The case was investigated by USDA-OIG and the FBI with assistance from the Gallia County Sherriff’s Office.
This investigation was conducted as part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) initiative. OCDETF identifies, disrupts and dismantles criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Senior Trial Attorney Adam Cullman of the Environment and Natural Resources Division’s Environmental Crimes Section, Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicole Pakiz for the Southern District of Ohio and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Mike Marous for the Southern District of Ohio are prosecuting the case.
North Carolina Man Arrested for Trying to Extort Millions of Dollars from D.C.-Based CompanyRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON — A North Carolina man was arrested yesterday for allegedly stealing sensitive data from his prior employer, a D.C.-based company, and threatening to publish this data unless the company paid him $2.5 million. The announcement was made by U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves and FBI Special Agent in Charge David J. Scott of the Washington Field Office Criminal and Cyber Division.
Cameron Curry, 25, of Charlotte, North Carolina, is charged in a criminal complaint filed in the District of Columbia with felony extortion for making an interstate threat to injure the property or reputation of another in order to extort money. Curry was arrested yesterday by the FBI in the Charlotte, North Carolina area. He made his initial appearance in the Western District of North Carolina earlier today.
According to court documents, Curry had been working as a contract employee with the victim company but was told on December 5, 2023, that his last day of employment would be December 15, 2023. On December 11, 2023, posing under the pseudonym of “Loot,” Curry allegedly began sending a series of emails to the victim company and its employees threatening to publish certain sensitive financial records and personally identifiable information of the victim company’s employees. In one email, Curry allegedly wrote, “If you wish to reclaim your data, we recommend doing so promptly at 2.5 million USD in order to save your company and stocks, as each subsequent month will incur a $100,000 USD increase.” Between December 11 and January 23, Curry allegedly sent over 60 similarly threatening emails to the company.
As alleged in the complaint, law enforcement identified Curry as the individual posing as “Loot” by metadata in the communications he sent to the company, user information for the email address he used to send these communications, and account details for the cryptocurrency wallet to which he directed the victim to send him the ransom he demanded, among other evidence.
On January 24, 2024, when the FBI sought to execute a search warrant at Curry’s residence, Curry allegedly refused to leave the residence and then sent a series of messages to the victim company threatening to publish its data if he were to be arrested.
In court earlier today in the Western District of North Carolina, Curry made his initial appearance on the charges against him and waived his right to a preliminary hearing. The Honorable David C. Keesler scheduled a detention hearing for next Monday, January 29, on the government’s request to detain Curry. Curry remains in custody pending that hearing.
This case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of North Carolina.
This case is being investigated by the FBI’s Washington Field Office. Valuable assistance was provided by the FBI’s Field Office in Charlotte, North Carolina.
A complaint is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
New York Presbyterian Hospital Pays over $800,000 to Settle Claims that Physician Practices Improperly Billed Government Health Care ProgramsRead the Press Release
Breon Peace, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, announced today that New York Presbyterian Hospital (NYPH) has agreed to pay $801,000 to resolve claims that two radiology practices improperly billed Medicare, Medicaid and TRICARE for images used in image guided radiation therapy treatments (IGRT) provided to cancer patients. The settlement agreement, which resolved claims under the Federal False Claims Act, was approved on January 19, 2024 by United States District Judge William F. Kuntz, II.
“The defendants provided substandard care to cancer patients by not properly or timely reviewing medical imaging and then billed taxpayer funded healthcare programs for these shoddy services,” stated United States Attorney Breon Peace. “My Office is committed to holding healthcare providers accountable for such conduct.”
Mr. Peace thanked the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Office of Personnel Management, Defense Healthcare Agency, and the New York State Office of Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit for their work on this case.
Radiation Therapist Associates, P.C. (RTA) and Leading Edge Radiation Oncology Services, PLLC (LEROS), which are no longer operating, provided outpatient radiation oncology services to several Brooklyn communities. RTA was a physician practice located within Methodist Hospital and operated under a contract with a predecessor of NYPH. LEROS was operated by an overlapping group of physicians and was a joint venture between NYPH’s predecessor and LEROS.
IGRT is a type of cancer treatment that uses imaging technologies such as PET, MRI, and CT to deliver radiation more accurately and safely to cancer cells. It uses periodically taken images to guide the precise delivery of radiation.
The United States claimed that between 2012 and 2018, RTA and LEROS billed for images utilized in IGRT when such images were either not reviewed, or were not timely reviewed, and therefore were not reasonable and necessary. Further, the investigation found that initial consultation sessions at RTA were in some instances billed at a higher coding level than appropriate.
Under the terms of the agreement with the United States and the State of New York, NYPH will pay a total of $801,000, with $694,999.71 going to the United States and $106,000.29 to the State of New York. These funds will go to the Medicare, Medicaid, and TRICARE programs.
The settlement includes the resolution of a civil action brought under the qui tam or whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act. Under the qui tam provisions of the False Claims Act, a private party can file an action on behalf of the United States and receive a portion of the settlement if the government takes over the case and reaches a monetary agreement with the defendant. The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only and there has been no admission of or determination of liability.
The case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Silverman of the Office’s Civil Division.
E.D.N.Y. Docket No. 17-CV-6356
United States ex rel. RAD Claim, LLC v. Radiation Therapist Associates, P.C. et al.,
New York Man Pleads Guilty to Passing Counterfeit Currency at Stores in Monroe CountyRead the Press Release
SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Ahmed Brima, age 36, of Staten Island, New York, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Court Judge Julia K. Munley, to the charge of passing counterfeit federal reserve notes.
According to United States Attorney Gerard M. Karam, Brima admitted that on May 16, 2023, he passed or attempted to pass counterfeit $100 bills at the CVS Pharmacy in East Stroudsburg, the Rite Aid in Stroudsburg, the Rite Aid in East Stroudsburg, the Walgreens in Stroud Township, and the Dollar General in East Stroudsburg. Brima was apprehended after the incident at the CVS Pharmacy in East Stroudsburg. The total amount of counterfeit currency that Brima passed, attempted to pass, or possessed was $3800.
The charges resulted from an investigation conducted by the United States Secret Service and the Stroud Area Regional Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Robert J. O’Hara is prosecuting the case.
The maximum penalty under federal law for each charge is 20 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
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New River Valley Drug Dealer Sentenced to More than 11 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
ROANOKE, Va. – A Dublin man who engaged in drug dealing in Roanoke while armed with a weapon was sentenced this week to 11 and a half years in federal prison.
Nicholaus Francois Wines, 39, pleaded guilty in August 2023 to possessing 500 grams or more of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute and to unlawfully possessing a firearm after having been previously convicted of a felony offense.
According to court documents, on November 19, 2021, Wines was a fugitive who had warrants for his arrest out of Roanoke County and Pulaski County. On that date, law enforcement utilized a source to order a quantity of methamphetamine from Wines, and when Wines arrived in Roanoke to make the delivery, he was arrested on his outstanding charges. Incident to his arrest, law enforcement discovered that not only did Wines have a semi-automatic pistol tucked into his pants, he also was in possession of 503 grams of methamphetamine as well as approximately $9,500 in U.S. Currency.
United States Attorney Christopher R. Kavanaugh, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Richmond Division Stanley M. Meador, and Superintendent Gary T. Settle of the Virginia State Police announced the sentence today.
The Virginia State Police, Roanoke City and County Police Departments, Salem City Police Department, the Botetourt-Rockbridge Drug Task Force, which consists of Botetourt County Sheriff's Office, Rockbridge County Sheriff's Office and Buena Vista Police Department, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation participated in the investigation of the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Coleman Adams prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
New Orleans Men Plead Guilty to Possessing Cars Stolen from Norfolk Southern Railyard and Federal Gun and Drug OffensesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – DERRIN RILEY, age 28, and JONATHAN FRANK, age 40, residents of New Orleans, pleaded guilty on January 23, 2024, before U.S. District Judge Jay C. Zainey. RILEY pleaded guilty to one count, and FRANK pleaded guilty to two counts, of possessing goods stolen from an interstate shipment, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 659. RILEY also pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute marijuana, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(D). FRANK also pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8).
According to court documents, on March 20, 2023, a white 2023 Ford Explorer ST was stolen from the Norfolk Southern Automotive Distribution Facility. On March 27, 2023, a Ford Explorer Timberline and a stone blue metallic 2023 Ford Explorer ST were also stolen from that Facility.
Between March 30 and April 3, 2023, FRANK was seen on surveillance video driving both stolen Ford Explorer STs while in possession of a Smith & Wesson handgun. On April 3, 2023, RILEY was seen on surveillance video exiting the stolen Ford Explorer Timberline with a large bag of marijuana which, it was determined, he intended to distribute. Two other individuals riding in the stolen car with RILEY possessed firearms.
Each count of possessing a stolen car carries a sentence of up to 10 years imprisonment , up to a $250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release. As to his conviction for possession with intent to distribute marijuana, RILEY faces up to 5 years imprisonment , up to a $250,000 fine, and a minimum of two years of supervised release. As to his conviction for felon in possession of a firearm, FRANK faces up to 15 years imprisonment , up to a $250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release. As to each count of conviction, FRANK faces payment of a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
This case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, the Louisiana State Police, and the New Orleans Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David Berman of the Violent Crime Unit.
New Mexico Man Sentenced to More Than 27 Years in Prison for Cocaine DistributionRead the Press Release
PECOS – An Anthony, NM, man was sentenced this week to 327 months in prison for his role in a drug trafficking organization that distributed cocaine.
According to court documents, Gilberto Hernandez, aka “G”, 30, was the leader of the Hernandez drug trafficking organization (DTO). From August 2021 until November 2022, the Hernandez DTO trafficked approximately 58 kilos of cocaine throughout Texas, New Mexico and Colorado.
On May 26, 2023 Hernandez pleaded guilty to eight counts of possession with intent to distribute cocaine.
Five other co-defendants of Hernandez have been sentenced and one is awaiting sentencing. Cesar Rodarte, aka El Gordo, 38, of Anthony, NM, after pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine, was sentenced this week to 151 months in prison.
Daniel Ochoa Meza, 37, of Monahans, after pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine, was sentenced this week to 135 months in prison.
Anthony Bustos, Sr., aka Tony, 60, of Monahans was sentenced on September 22, 2023 to 87 months in prison. Bustos pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine.
Armiro Bernal Cabello, 45, of Fort Stockton, was sentenced on August 29, 2023 to 121 months in prison. Cabello pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine.
Juan Jose Mora, 41, of Vado, NM, was sentenced on May 23, 2023 to 27 months in prison. Mora pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine.
George Daniel Mendoza, 31, of Deming, NM, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine. Mendoza is set to be sentenced on February 27, 2024.
“In a little over a year, the Hernandez DTO peddled over 127 pounds of cocaine throughout Texas, Mexico and Colorado,” said U.S. Attorney Jaime Esparza for the Western District of Texas. “I applaud the DEA for their diligence and persistence in taking down this drug organization.”
“If you attempt to set up a criminal enterprise in one of our communities, you will be introduced to the men and women of the DEA,” said Towanda Thorne-James, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s El Paso Division. “We will stop at nothing to shut you down and make sure you face the same justice handed down to Mr. Hernandez.”
The DEA’s Alpine Resident Office investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Amy Greenbaum prosecuted the case.
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New Kensington Man Sentenced to Five Years in Prison and Four Years of Supervised Release for Conspiring to Distribute FentanylRead the Press Release
JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of New Kensington, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to a total of 60 months in prison followed by four years of supervised release on his conviction of conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Kim R. Gibson imposed the sentence on Devan Nicholson, 30.
According to information presented to the court, from May 2022 to February 2023, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Nicholson conspired to distribute 40 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl. Nicholson was intercepted on a federal wiretap obtaining quantities of fentanyl that he distributed to others.
Assistant United States Attorney Arnold P. Bernard Jr. prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Olshan commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Laurel Highlands Resident Agency and Homeland Security Investigations for the investigation that led to the successful prosecution of Nicholson. Additional agencies participating in this investigation included the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and other local law enforcement agencies.
This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Mobile Man Sentenced to 15 Years for Illegally Possessing FirearmRead the Press Release
MOBILE, AL – A Mobile, Alabama man was sentenced today to 15 years in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
According to court documents, following a trial held in October 2023, the jury convicted James Pettway of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Pettway has at least two prior felony convictions and is therefore prohibited from possessing a firearm. In November 2022, members of the Mobile Police Department encountered Pettway during a robbery investigation. When law enforcement approached Pettway, he had a firearm in his waistband. Today United States District Judge Terry F. Moorer sentenced Pettway to 15 years in the custody of the Bureau of Prisons, which is the statutory maximum sentence. The term of imprisonment will be followed by a 3-year term of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Sean Costello of the Southern District of Alabama made the announcement.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Mobile Police Department investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tandice Blackwood and Beth Stepan prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.
This case was prosecuted as part of the Department of Justice Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) program.
Missouri Man Who Sexually Assaulted Children Sentenced to 199 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge Stephen R. Clark on Thursday sentenced a man who possessed child pornography and admitted sexually abusing two children to 199 months in prison.
Judge Clark also ordered Kyle Mathew Bray, 32, to be placed on supervised release for life after his prison term ends. Bray, who was living in Lincoln County at the time his crimes were discovered, pleaded guilty in August to one count of receipt of child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography. He admitted using the Telegram app to receive child pornography, which he stored on his phone, and join Telegram groups focused on children. Bray also admitted sexually abusing a 4-year-old and an 8-year-old.
The case was investigated by the Troy Police Department, the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Department, the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, and the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Hayes prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Department of Justice Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Member of White Supremacist Group Convicted of Defacing Michigan Synagogue with Neo-Nazi SymbolsRead the Press Release
MARQUETTE, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that a federal jury convicted Nathan Weeden, 23, of Houghton, Michigan for conspiring with others and defacing Temple Jacob – a Jewish synagogue in Hancock, Michigan – with swastikas and symbols associated with The Base, a multi-state, white supremacist group.
“Today’s swift conviction sends a strong message that hate will not be tolerated in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten, who was in Marquette for the trial. “No one should be the target of hate because of their race, ethnicity, religion, or any other status. When hateful words become hateful acts, my office will use every tool we have to protect the public and secure justice.”
“This defendant shamelessly desecrated Temple Jacob when he emblazoned swastikas — a symbol of extermination — on their Temple walls,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “Such conduct is unacceptable and criminal under any circumstances but doing so in furtherance of a self-described ‘Operation Kristallnacht’ conspiracy is beyond disgraceful. Antisemitism has no place in our society, and the Justice Department will aggressively prosecute white supremacists who seek to threaten and intimidate others from exercising their federally and constitutionally protected rights.”
In September 2019, Nathan Weeden, Richard Tobin, and Yousef Barasneh – all members of The Base, a multi-state, white supremacist organization – used an encrypted messaging platform to discuss vandalizing property associated with African Americans and Jewish Americans. Weeden and his co-conspirators dubbed their plan, “Operation Kristallnacht,” which in German means “Night of Broken Glass.” This term referenced events that took place on November 9-10, 1938, in which Nazis murdered Jews and burned and destroyed their homes, synagogues, schools, and places of business. Weeden carried out this plan on September 21, 2019, when he spray-painted swastikas and symbols associated with The Base on the outside walls of Temple Jacob.
The jury convicted Weeden of two counts. The first count is Conspiracy Against Rights under 18 U.S.C. § 241, a civil rights statute that makes it a crime to conspire to injure, oppress, threaten, or intimidate any person in the exercise of their rights. The second count is for Damage to Religious Property under 18 U.S.C. § 247, also a civil rights statute that makes it a crime to intentionally deface, damage, or destroy religious property because of the race or ethnic characteristics of individuals associated with that religious property. Co-conspirators Richard Tobin (see here and here) and Yousef Barasneh (see here and here) were previously convicted of federal crimes in this matter.
"People of all faiths deserve to feel safe in their communities," said Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan. "The FBI and our law enforcement partners will continue to hold those accountable whose hate-filled aggression violates the civil rights of others. For law enforcement to safeguard against hate and violence, we request the public's assistance in reporting suspicious or threatening behavior by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324) or submitting a tip online at https://www.fbi.gov/"
“Hate and intimidation have no place in Michigan or our communities,” said Special Agent in Charge James Deir of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Detroit Field Office. “The behavior in this conviction is most certainly disturbing, ignorant and intolerable. ATF is laser-focused on ensuring public safety by holding people accountable for their hate-inspired deplorable actions. Houses of worship need to remain safe places where people can go for spiritual redemption and growth. Any attack on a house of worship or a group of people is an attack on our very way of life in this great state.”
The grand jury issued its two-count indictment against Nathan Weeden on June 27, 2023. The indictment was unsealed on June 29, 2023, after the defendant was arrested by the FBI.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nils Kessler and Trial Attorney Eric Peffley of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section. The FBI investigated the case with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Hancock Police Department.
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Mason City Man Who Threatened to Kill Woman with a Shotgun Sentenced to 10 Years’ Imprisonment for Possession of Firearm by a FelonRead the Press Release
A Mason City, Iowa man who pointed a shotgun at a woman and threatened to kill her, was sentenced today, January 25, 2024, to 10 years in federal prison.
Joseph Fitzgerald, age 64, from Mason City, Iowa, received the prison term after a September 11, 2023, guilty plea to one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and domestic misdemeanant.
Evidence in the case revealed that on November 23, 2022, Fitzgerald pointed a shotgun at a woman he resided with, who was disabled, and threatened to kill her. The woman was able to call 911. When officers arrived on scene, Fitzgerald initially refused to let officers enter the home, but they were eventually able to make contact with the woman, who was still upset by the interaction. Fitzgerald has a lengthy criminal history, including convictions for domestic violence, illegal drugs, and burglary. Notably, Fitzgerald also had eight driving while intoxicated convictions and 13 assault convictions.
Fitzgerald was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand to 120 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a 3-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Fitzgerald is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was investigated by the Mason City, Iowa Police Department and ATF, and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ron Timmons.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 23-3009.
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Maryland Man Found Guilty of Assault with Intent to Kill While Armed and Other Charges for Road Rage ShootingRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Kenneth Miles Davis, Jr., 45, of Maryland, was found guilty by a jury late yesterday of multiple charges arising from the May 19, 2021 road rage shooting directed at a woman and her two children, ages 11 and 5, as well as a bystander, in Northeast Washington, D.C., announced U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves and Metropolitan Police Department Chief Pamela A. Smith. The Honorable Rainey Brandt scheduled sentencing for March 29, 2024.
The jury returned its verdict after a three-week trial in the Superior Court, finding Davis guilty of one count of assault with intent to kill while armed, three counts of assault with a dangerous weapon, and four counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence.
According to the government’s evidence, at approximately 5:00 pm on May 19, 2021, the defendant was driving his Maserati GranTurismo in heavy rush-hour traffic at the intersection of Kenilworth Avenue NE and Eastern Avenue NE when he suddenly got out of his car with a handgun. Davis fired seven times into the car in front of him, which was occupied by a woman and her two children, then turned and fired six more shots at bystanders. The woman suffered a gunshot wound to her upper arm and the 5-year-old child was cut by broken automobile glass. Fortunately, the 11-year-old child and the bystanders were not injured. Metropolitan Police Department investigators uncovered video evidence that was disseminated to local news outlets, the broadcast of which generated a tip that led to the identification of Davis as the owner of the Maserati, and ultimately, as the shooter.
This case was investigated by the Metropolitan Police Department. Invaluable assistance was provided by the United States Marshals Service from the inception of the case and through trial. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kathryn Bartz and Gregory Evans of the Major Crimes Unit of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia.
Man Who Killed Victim with a Water Meter Key was Sentenced to LifeRead the Press Release
A Tulsa man was sentenced today for First Degree Murder in Indian Country after being convicted by a federal jury in Nov. 2022, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
U.S. District Judge John F. Heil, III, sentenced Kyle Edwin Freeman, 37, member of the Seminole Tribe of Florida, to life imprisonment.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Freeman had been staying with the victim, Donald Thomas in the days leading up to the murder. Freeman and his girlfriend were in a physical altercation. Witnesses said that Thomas was successful in breaking up the altercation and even exchanged a hug with Freeman, who appeared to be calm. Approximately 20 minutes later, Freeman entered the room with a water meter key and struck Thomas over the head several times killing him.
Freeman will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility.
The FBI, Tulsa Police Department, Muscogee Nation Lighthorse Police Department, and the Creek County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kenneth Elmore and John E. Brasher prosecuted the case.
Man Sentenced in District of New Hampshire to 20 Years in Prison for Child Exploitation Offenses Occurring in New JerseyRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – A Concord, New Hampshire, man was sentenced today in federal court to 240 months in prison for the exploitation of a minor in New Jersey and possession of child sexual abuse material, U.S. Attorney Philip Sellinger and U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announced.
Scott Wilkinson, 39, previously pleaded guilty to one count each of production of child pornography and one count of possession of child sexual abuse material before U.S. District Court Judge Joseph Laplante, who imposed the sentence today in federal court in New Hampshire.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
Wilkinson traveled from New Hampshire to New Jersey in April 2022, where he engaged in sexual acts with a 12-year-old child. Wilkinson had been corresponding with the child online for approximately one year prior to traveling to New Jersey to meet the child. A video that Wilkinson created of himself engaged in sexual acts with the child was found on his cell phone, as were other images and videos of child sexual abuse material.
In addition to the prison term, Judge Laplante sentenced Wilkinson to 10 years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Sellinger and U.S. Attorney Young credited special agents of the FBI the Newark Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task force, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge James E. Dennehy; and the Egg Harbor Township Police Department with the investigation leading to today’s sentencing. Valuable assistance was provided by the Concord Police Department.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lindsey Harteis of the District of New Jersey and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kasey Weiland of the District of New Hampshire.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Lynn Man Sentenced for Trafficking More Than 7,000 Counterfeit Pills Containing FentanylRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Lynn man was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for his role in a North Shore-based drug trafficking organization (DTO) that manufactured and distributed thousands of counterfeit prescription pills containing narcotics.
Erick Solis Lopez, 25, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Chief Judge F. Dennis Saylor IV to 62 months in prison and three years of supervised release. Solis was also ordered to forfeit $18,190, assorted jewelry and two vehicles. In October 2023, Solis pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances.
Solis was among 23 individuals charged in October 2022 in connection with a wide-ranging conspiracy to traffic counterfeit prescription pills. The defendants were subsequently indicted along with two additional alleged co-conspirators in December 2022. According to court documents, the DTO distributed counterfeit oxycodone pills containing fentanyl and counterfeit Adderall pills containing methamphetamine, among other things, to various individuals in the Lynn area. Solis is the third defendant to be sentenced in the case.
Solis was responsible for the distribution of approximately 7,300 counterfeit oxycodone pills containing undisclosed amounts of fentanyl. Solis made daily deliveries of fentanyl pills, powder fentanyl, crack cocaine and marijuana for the DTO. Some of these controlled substances were recovered from a vehicle registered to Solis in a mechanically operated concealed compartment (commonly referred to as a “hide”). The vehicle also contained a fraudulent driver’s license bearing Solis’s photograph.
Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy; Brian D. Boyle, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Division; and John E. Mawn Jr., Interim Colonel of the Massachusetts State Police made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Beverly, Everett, Peabody, Revere, Salem, Saugus and Swampscott Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorneys James E. Arnold and Evan D. Panich of the Narcotics & Money Laundering Unit prosecuted the case.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/ocdetf.
The details contained in the indictment are allegations. The remaining defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Louisiana Men Convicted of Conspiracy to Unlawfully Transport Live White-Tailed Deer from Louisiana to MississippiRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – Two Louisiana men pled guilty to conspiracy to violate the Lacey Act, announced U.S. Attorney Todd W. Gee, Acting Special Agent in Charge Stephanie Johnson of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and Colonel Jerry Carter of the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks.
Brandon Scott Favre, 49, of Baton Rouge, pled guilty on November 8, 2023; and Jason Martin, 50, of Hackberry, pled guilty on January 19, 2024. Both defendants pled guilty to a misdemeanor charge of conspiring to transport a live white-tailed deer from the state of Louisiana to the state of Mississippi in violation of state and federal laws.
Favre was sentenced to a 4-year term of supervised probation and ordered to pay a $5,000 fine. He was also ordered to implement a four-year Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) sampling and testing plan on an 850-acre enclosure and ordered to pay $59,808.19 in restitution for the costs of the CWD sampling and testing plan that will be conducted by the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks (MDWFP). As part of this plan, 40 white-tailed deer will be harvested each of the four years by the MDWFP for CWD testing.
Martin is scheduled to be sentenced on April 3, 2024, and faces a maximum penalty of 1 year imprisonment and a $10,000 fine. A federal magistrate judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
According to court documents and statements made in open court, from October 2020, through June 2021, Favre and Martin entered into an agreement to transport and receive from Louisiana into Mississippi a live white-tailed deer. In April 2021, Martin transported the deer as agreed upon and delivered to Mistletoe Properties, a permitted 850-acre high-fence enclosure for white-tailed deer operated by Favre, located in Adams County, Mississippi. Once delivered, the deer was put into an unpermitted breeding pen located on the property. The deer was transported from Louisiana without documentation, in violation of Louisiana law, and transported into Mississippi, in violation of Mississippi law, and all in violation of federal law.
Federal law makes it unlawful to transport live white-tailed deer from one state to another without proper documentation and without required animal health records. These records include certifying that captive-bred animals are free from diseases such as chronic wasting disease. The Mississippi Board of Animal Health has declared that white-tailed deer are considered chronic wasting disease susceptible animals and are not allowed entry into Mississippi. The State of Louisiana requires any person who keeps, breeds, raises, contains, harvests, buys, sells, trades, or transfers ownership of any type of farm-raised alternative livestock for commercial purposes shall obtain a farm-raising license prior to engaging in such activity. Additionally, the State of Louisiana requires any person with a farm-raising license to maintain records, for not less than 60 months, of all sales, trades, or transfers of any farm-raised alternative livestock. White-tailed deer are considered farm-raised alternative livestock. Chronic wasting disease is the chief threat to wild deer and elk populations in North America. The disease, which ultimately ends in the death of infected animals, is a transmissible neurological disease that produces small lesions in the brain of deer and elk and is characterized by loss of body condition and behavioral abnormalities.
USFWS Acting SAC Stephanie Johnson stated: "This prosecution is an excellent example of what we can accomplish through the collaboration that occurs every day between the USFWS and our enforcement partners. The MDWFP and USFWS share a vested interest in combating the spread of diseases which threaten our native wildlife populations and are potentially spread through the interstate transport of deer in violation of state and federal laws."
MDWFP Colonel Jerry Carter stated: “The MDWFP takes the interstate transport and unlawful importation of White-tailed deer into the State of Mississippi seriously. We will continue to work collaborative criminal investigations with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service & the U.S. Attorney’s Office to detect and prosecute those who choose to violate the laws of this state.”
The Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks – Investigations Unit, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service – Office of Law Enforcement investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Bert Carraway is prosecuting the case.
Leader of Human Smuggling Organization Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Transport Illegal Aliens for ProfitRead the Press Release
PHOENIX, Ariz. – Maria Mendoza-Mendoza, aka “La Guera,” 51, of Honduras, pleaded guilty yesterday to Conspiracy to Transport Illegal Aliens for Profit. The sentencing hearing is scheduled for April 2, 2024, before United States District Judge Raner C. Collins.
Mendoza-Mendoza admitted that she was a leader of a smuggling organization that smuggled over 100 migrants from Honduras into the United States, and that, as a leader, she coordinated alien smuggling and money laundering events. Mendoza-Mendoza admitted she told a co-conspirator she would “bleed out” a guide as punishment and that she stated that a migrant whose family did not pay his fee would be thrown “back in the desert.” She also admitted that the smuggling organization used firearms and that the smuggling involved dangerous risks to the migrants. The government of Honduras extradited Mendoza-Mendoza to the United States in June 2023 to face these charges.
A conviction for Conspiracy to Transport Illegal Aliens for Profit carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison.
This prosecution resulted from the coordinated efforts of Joint Task Force Alpha (JTFA). The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Arizona is part of JTFA, which was established by Attorney General Merrick B. Garland in June 2021 to marshal the investigative and prosecutorial resources of the Department of Justice, in partnership with the Department of Homeland Security, to enhance U.S. enforcement efforts against the most prolific and dangerous human smuggling and trafficking groups operating in Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras. The Task Force focuses on disrupting and dismantling smuggling and trafficking networks that abuse, exploit, or endanger migrants, pose national security threats, and are involved in organized crime.
Homeland Security Investigations-Sells office conducted the investigation in this case. The United States Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, Tucson, handled the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-18-00078-RCC-MAA
RELEASE NUMBER: 2024-008_Mendoza-Mendoza# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.Lawrence Man Sentenced to 51 Months in Prison for Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Lawrence man was sentenced in federal court in Boston to illegally reentering the United States after been deported.
Francisco Araujo Lara, 33, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Indira Talwani to 51 months in prison and three years of supervised release. In October 2023, Araujo Lara pleaded guilty to one count of unlawful reentry of a deported alien.
Araujo Lara, a citizen on the Dominican Republic, was deported from the United States in September 2019, after serving an 18-to-30-month state sentence for a fentanyl distribution. Sometime thereafter, Araujo Lara unlawfully reentered the United States. In 2021, he was arrested in Lawrence for distributing fentanyl and possessing cocaine with the intent to distribute it. Araujo Lara pleaded guilty to the state charges and was sentenced to 30 months in state prison.
Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy and Todd M. Lyons, Field Office Director, Boston, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney David G. Tobin of the Major Crimes Unit prosecuted the case.